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Creamy Chicken Enchiladas

These Creamy Chicken Enchiladas are a luscious blend of tender shredded chicken, rich and creamy sauce, and melted cheese, all wrapped in soft tortillas and baked to perfection.

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Mixing bowls
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Spatula or wooden spoon
  • 9x13-inch baking dish
  • Aluminum foil
  • Whisk

Ingredients
  

  • For the Filling:
  • 2 cups cooked chicken shredded (rotisserie chicken works great)
  • 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack or cheddar cheese
  • 1 small onion finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder
  • ½ teaspoon paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup frozen corn kernels thawed (optional)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional)
  • For the Creamy Sauce:
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • ½ teaspoon salt
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon ground cumin
  • For Assembly:
  • 12 large flour tortillas
  • cups shredded cheese Monterey Jack, cheddar, or a blend
  • Sour cream for serving
  • Sliced green onions for garnish (optional)
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Filling:
  • Cook the Aromatics: In a large skillet over medium heat, sauté the chopped onion in a bit of oil until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1 minute until fragrant.
  • Season the Chicken: Add the shredded chicken to the skillet. Stir in ground cumin, chili powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  • Add Extras: If using, stir in the thawed corn and chopped cilantro. Remove from heat and set aside.
  • Make the Creamy Sauce:
  • Create a Roux: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the mixture is bubbly and lightly golden.
  • Add Liquids: Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to prevent lumps. Continue to whisk until the mixture is smooth.
  • Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, dried oregano, and ground cumin. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring frequently, until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from heat.
  • Assemble the Enchiladas:
  • Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9x13-inch baking dish.
  • Fill the Tortillas: Spread a thin layer of the creamy sauce on the bottom of the baking dish. This prevents the tortillas from sticking.
  • Prepare Each Enchilada: Warm the flour tortillas in the microwave for about 20 seconds to make them more pliable. Spoon about ¼ cup of the chicken filling onto each tortilla. Sprinkle a little shredded cheese over the filling.
  • Roll and Place: Roll up each tortilla tightly and place it seam-side down in the prepared baking dish.
  • Top with Sauce and Cheese: Once all enchiladas are in the dish, pour the remaining creamy sauce evenly over the top. Sprinkle with the remaining shredded cheese.
  • Bake: Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Notes

Garnish and Enjoy: Let the enchiladas cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with sour cream, sliced green onions, and fresh cilantro if desired.
Pairings: Serve alongside a fresh green salad, Mexican rice, or refried beans for a complete meal.